Baked Cavatelli
A hearty baked pasta dish featuring tender cavatelli, savory sausage, melted mozzarella, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions and drain.
- In a large skillet, cook sausage slices until no pink remains.
- Remove sausage from skillet, reserving 1 tablespoon of fat.
- Cook chopped green onions and minced garlic in the reserved drippings until fragrant.
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine cooked pasta, sausage, onion mixture, tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce with mushrooms, half of the shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Toss to combine.
- Cover the casserole and bake in a 375°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try swapping the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. To enhance the flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil. This dish can also be customized with additional veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked cavatelli with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a satisfying meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavors beautifully. This dish pairs well with Italian red wines, making it a perfect centerpiece for a casual dinner or a gathering. For more Italian recipes, consider trying the Best Lasagna or Antipasto Shell Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. This makes a great meal prep option for busy weeknights.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cavatelli contains roughly 850 calories, with 46g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (89% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1260mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked cavatelli ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese on hand, you can use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Cheddar cheese can also work in a pinch, although it will alter the traditional taste of the dish.
Can I freeze baked cavatelli?
Yes, you can freeze baked cavatelli. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).